Pair of watercolours depicting idealised landscapes, 18th century

This pair of watercolours dates from the 18th century, around 1750. Executed in the watercolour technique, these compositions depict idealised pastoral and architectural landscapes. The first sheet depicts a waterside scene flanked by classical-looking ancient ruins and an arched bridge, brought to life by the silhouettes of figures. The second depicts a fortified building perched on a rocky islet, framed by columned architectural elements in the foreground. The whole is set within dark moulded frames enhanced by a gilded border showing visible wear. The works employ a soft palette of plant- and mineral-inspired tones, illustrating the mid-18th-century taste for composed views combining ruins and nature.